Bajirao Mastaani- Teaser Review by Shoby

Here we go... My ‪Eidi‬ ‪is here... ‎Baajirao‬ ne ‪Mastani‬ se Mohabbat ki hai, Ayashi nahi...

The only legend of ‪Bollywood‬ Sanjay Leela ‪Bhansali‬ sb has re-defined the term Magnum Opus in this three odd minutes teaser... ‪SLB‬ gets grander in the trailer of ‪ Baajirao Mastani‬ ‪Dec 18‬...

Remember its only 1 dialogue Just a glimpse of a song in 3 minutes and its looking like baap of cinema ‪Hats Of‬f ‪Bhansali‬ sb ‪‎Baajirao Mastani‬...

Bajrangi Bhaijaan- Movie Review by Shoby

Bajrangi Bhaijaan- Movie Review by Shoby

2.5 Stars out of 5

Kabir Khan is famous for making films based on on cross-border stories. Kabul Express, New York and Ek Tha Tiger are its prime examples. As far as subject matter is concerned, Bajrangi Bhaijaan is no different. However, this time its about a man with the golden heart Pawan who is known as Bajrangi Bhaijaan as he is a strong devotee of hindu God hanumaan. He finds a lost Pakistani child (Shahida/Munni) when she was visiting a shrine in India with her mother. There starts a roller coaster of emotions.

To be honest, it has a very unrealistic story, which is sugarcoated with loads and loads of (sometimes looking over-exaggerated) emotions. This film works majorly on its strong emotional quotient, apart from some beautiful acting display by the prime cast. Salman Khan looks strong in playing the humble and sincere Pawan character. Harshaali Malhotra is a find. Although, she is playing a mute kid and had no dialogues to utter, she shines brilliantly in sequences with her mere gestures. Two of her signature gestures (the way she raises one hand to say Yes and the way she hits her hand to her forehead to show) are two good and goes well with her innocent looks.

Kareena Kapoor has a small but important part to play and she is OK in her tiny role. Icing on the cake is Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who has once again given a great shot on screen. Playing a Pakistani freelance journalist Nawab Chan, he is almost perfect and in many scenes, outshines his counter parts.  First half of the movie is not that much solid but the movie picks itself up right after the introduction of Nawazudin's character.

Music is not matching to the perfection, in fact, its a laid down if we compare it with sound tracks of other Salman Khan's movie. Selfie is though a hit track and Bhar Do Jholi (qawali re-done by maestro Adnan Sami) is beautiful and Kabir Khan has pitched it perfect in the plot.

Cinematography is good and beauty of Kashmir is depicted in a classy style. Editing is crisp and gives us quite a reasonable amount of film length that one can grasp. Background score is average.

On the whole, one should watch it only for the beautiful love bond between Salman-Harshaali characters and some awesome acting display by Nawazuddin Siddiqui.

Bin Roye- Movie Review by Shoby…

Bin Roye- Movie Review by Shoby…

2 Stars out of 5

I believe it is one of the toughest task for a film maker to convert a book into a feature film as readers have already made certain image of the written material, when they read it. Momina Duraid is famous for making cult drama serials for Pakistani screens and many of them were adopted from novels. She, along with writer Farhat Ishtiaq and actress Mahira Khan has given one of the most popular fiction show Humsafar, which became so popular that it even got dubbed in other languages for international audience and was telecasted in India as well.

When they launched the teaser/trailer of Bin Roye (film adaptaion of a classic novel Bin Roye Aansoo), hype was instantly built. Audiendce was all set to witness another gem like Humsafar, however whether the trio of Momina, Farhat and Mahira has succeeded in producing a classic, lets analyze.

Storyline of novel is a love-hate saga…  Storyline of the movie is an arthodox (so-called) love story. Bin Roye is without any doubt the most beautiful Pakistani movie, in terms of its art direction and costume design and probably one of the worst films, when it comes to script. Here, a poorly written script has spoiled the show entirely. Unfortunately they couldnt convert the novel into a strong likable script for the movie.

One major flaw of the script was that the most poignant moments of the novel , totally ignored in the movie. The whole lahore episode (before the birth of Muaaz) is disappeared. Scenes of Saba’s teenage are also not present in the movie. Some sequences that I loved in the novel like when Irtaza loses to Zafar and Saba’s outburst, the lahore episode, Saba’s marriage and her relationship with her husband. All these very important points were totally ignored (may be to shorten the length of the movie) but in return what came in front of us, was a half backed product. And it provided a serious dent to the essence of the script. That is why, true feel of the plot is missing.

Bin Roye Aansoo had a phenomenal climax and it was totally spoiled by some very flawed acting of Humayun Saeed. Even 360 degree rotational camera view could not help to enhance the impact. Writing a novel and a screenplay for a movie are altogether two different things and it is not necessary that a good novel writer turns into a great screenplay writer as well. They have failed to convert the essence of novel into a tangible script for sure.

Background score is soothing and although its more like of a musical track of a Hum TV drama, it goes well with the proceedings and may be it’s the only life savior for the film.

All the tracks are melodious and toping the album is Ankit Tiwari’s O Yaara. Rahat’s Tere Bina Jeena is also good and you may like to hum it occasionally. Title track of Shiraz Uppel (Bin Roye) is not present in the movie anywhere.

On the acting department Mahira Khan has tried to give her 100% and looked so innocent. Graceful dresses have made her look damn cute but she is definitely not a Film product for sure. Humayun Saeed disappointed big times and could not give at par performance. Armeena and supporting cast  had nothing   much to do. Dialogues of novel were far better. And they have used only few dialogues from it.

Costume designer, Sound designer and art director have succeeded in doing a phenomenal job. Overall cinematography is good with bright colors in focus. Choreography is a complete laid down and we need to focus much on this department. Editing is not good. In fact, they have perhaps, over edited the proceedings.

On the whole, it is evident from Bin Roye that Film is an entirely different medium from TV and all TV directors/producers cannot get the same status in film production. After Jami’s failure attempt in Operation 021, this time Momina Duraid along with her co-director have failed to make any impact.

ABCD 2... Movie Review by Shoby

ABCD 2... Movie Review by Shoby

2.5 stars out of 5

A team of losers fighting for their pride. A typical wannabe movie, having a tried n tested formula, in terms of script n execution. But I've no complaints with Remo. Reason behind this is, he has depicted for which he is famous. Dance.

This is one of those movies, which will be remembered only for its awesome dance performances. Alongwith Prabhu Deva, some of the best performers from IDS n DID have given their best shots. Esp, my fav IDS winner #MJ5 who are known for their hip-hop n locking-popping and diverse moon walks.

Watch this good entertainer atleast once to believe that anybody can really dance and make you feel like watching a 2 hours plus proceedings only by showing you the dance.

Hamari Aduri Kahani... Movie Review by Shoby

Hamari Adhuri Kahani...

Movie Review by Shoby

2 stars out of 5

John Green said pain demands to be felt and Mohit Suri is master in depicting it. If aashiqui 2 wasnt enough, he gave us a gem in the form of ek villain.

With seasoned actors like Emran Hashmi, Vidya Balan and Rajkumar Rao, #HAK had to be a masterpiece, but what comes out of the hat is nothing but a weak flawed script.

Although, I have no complaints with the acting department, where all the three shines brightly esp rajkumar, who has given the best shot of his carrier, there is nothing much special about the proceedings to talk about.

Music has always been a usp of bhatt's product but this film lacks the punch, as we heard it earlier. Hamari Adhuri Kahani and Zaruri Tha are beautiful numbers though.

It looks like fox star and bhatts are unlucky, when they come together. Earlier Mr. X and now hamari adhuri kahani, both couldnt make any mark.

Tanu Weds Manu Returns… Movie Review by Shoby

Tanu Weds Manu Returns… Movie Review by Shoby

4.25 Stars out of 5…

He made an impact with his directorial venture Tanu Weds Manu in 2011. Later on, he strenthened his position in Bollywood as an exceptional talent with Raanjhna in 2013. When he started his sequel to 2011 hit Tanu Weds Manu, everyone was anticipating a big product. Lets see, what he came with.

Sequel starts right from where the first installment ended. Tanu and Manu gets married and right after four years, we see them standing in front of a mental asylum, where we get to see the rift between them.  Manu is sent to asylum and Tanu goes back to  India. Later on Manu also goes back and finds a Tanu’s look alike Kumari Kusum there. I strongly recommend you to watch the movie to find out what happens after that.

It’s a kind of plot you rarely find in an Indian movie. Almost perfect with nearly no cliches at all. A script I have no words to praise, which is converted into a screenplay you will find the most interesting one. It is without any doubt the finest rom-com ever made in Bollywood.

This film will be remembered for ages for three basic elements. 1. Perfect script, 2. Power-packed performances, 3. Dialogues. Madhavan, Jimmy Shergil and everyone out there in supporting cast have given outstanding performances. I would specially like to mention Deepak Dobriyal (Pappi) and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub (Chintu). Whenever they were on screen, they were a treat to watch.

Nevertheless, to me, it was a Kangana Ranavat’s show all alone. After TWM and Queen, she made a big mark but this film is her career best performance.

Some characters remain a part of you for ages. To name a few, we have Rhea (Rani) in Hum Tum, Geet (Kareena in Jab We Met), Jordan (Ranbir in Rockstar), Veera (Aliya Bhatt), Vidya (Vidya Balan in Kahaani) and somer others. Mark my words, Kusum (Kangaana’s avtar in Tanu Weds Manu Returns) is one of the most historic cinematic characters Bollywood has ever produced.

Kangana is pitch perfect in Haryanvi accent and a sports athlete avtar. Right from where she utters the dialogue “Main lagu to taari lugai jaisi, per main taari lugai kai na. Mara Naam hai Kumari Kusum” you starts feeling the goosebumps. The ease with which she has uttered the dialogues in the whole movie in Haryanvi accent deserves more than a big applaud. I believe, she is a very strong contender for her performce in all the upcoming awards.

One thing that makes this film stand out from traditional romantic comedies is the humor Ananad has embedded in the plot. Even in most intense of the situations, he has managed to bring a LOL sort of humor, without making it look like a forced one or slap stick. The one liners written by Himanshu Sharma are delight to hear.

Although its one of those movies that never allow you to take your eyes off, yet I found a big issue and that is the editing. I believe, if it was a bit more crispier especially in the second half, it would have been a flawless endeavor. Ending sequences are felt to be exaggerated and over expanded, which could have been cropped to save almost 10 odd minutes. That’s where editing department could have done much better.

Music is average, however goes by the proceedings well and tracks are mostly situational. Bannu, Bavari and Maari Galli are for front benches. Witnessed whistles and claps while they play in the theater.

Overall, it is the best movie of 2015 till date and you should better not miss this epic romantic-comedy.

Piku- Movie Review by Shoby

Piku- Movie Review

3 Stars out of 5...

An annoying aged father, a completely fed up daughter and an arrogant taxi business owner... Soojit Sricar, who gave us critically acclaimed Vicky Donor and Madras Cafe is back with a v strong project... Piku... A very solid script coupled with some top notch acting... It is one of those no- nonsense films, that you never wants to be ended...

To me Deepika has stolen the show but Big B and Irfan were also on top of their performance... Watch the sequence where Deepika breaks down... No doubt, it was the highlight of the movie... It has some very sit-com based humor sequences that brings smile to your face after every two to three minutes... Yes, its a must watch...

NH10... Movie Review by Shoby

NH 10... Movie Review by Shoby

1 star out of 5

Nothing but loads n loads of violence... No script and nothing else...

Dum Laga Ke Haisha... Movie Review by Shoby

Dum Laga Ke Haisha... Movie Review by Shoby

3.25 Stars out of 5

Sometimes, you come up with an extra ordinary product by just keeping the basics right. In this era, where stylish flicks, sleek action, unique cinematography, adrenaline pumping action and vibrant VFX has reshaped the industry, you get spell casted when a very simple story of two very relatable protagonists grabs you instantaneously.

DLGH is a simple story which is marvelously directed by debutant Sharat Katariya. This two hour proceeding is written so delicately that it gets your eyes glued to the screen right from the word go till the end. A very intelligent script and a very mature screen play, combined with superb direction.

Two odds come together by fate... An arranged marriage that fell in trouble from the very beginning... Ayushman at his very best, when it comes to delivering the dialogue... But to me, the actual hero is the debutant Bhumi, who has literally removed the established myths of being a typical bollywoodish heroine...

Unconstrained spontaneity blended with the simplicity in each and every sequence of the movie depicted by Bhumi is what that keeps you hooked right throoughout the film... You just can’t get over even after it ends...

Some sequences really deserve standing ovation and expect some real claps in the theater on their arrival... I personally loved the "cold war" between Ayushman and Bhumi (when songs from 90s are played by both of them)... Sequence where Bua comes to know about her separated husband, Mind blowing and we should never forget excellent comic timing and marvelous acting by Sanjay Mishra... He is no doubt one of the fines actors bollywood currently owns...

Music of DLGH is a winner... Kumar Sanu's magical voice gives us yet another soothing romantic number (Tu) which has a taste of 90s and although its only some seconds above than 3 minutes but still it is one of those songs that go on to become ever green... Papon's melo number Moh Moh Ke Dhaage is a treat for those who know the meaning of poetry...

On the whole, DLGH is a breather... Its fresh and simple and gives you a taste of real meaningful cinema... Hats off Sharat for making a simple yet strong movie... Thumbs Up

Badlapur- Movie Review by Shoby...

Badlapur- Movie Review...

3 out of 5 Stars...

This vintage saga is a very nice blend of excellent direction and equally beautiful acting... Nawazuddin has been performing consistently well in Bwood and he has again come up with yet another mind blowing performance... Varun Dhawan is good, considering the fact that he has stepped out of his comfort zone for the first time...

It has a very attractive BG score and Sound Track, which goes well with the proceedings... Cinematography is top notch, which makes the thriller look so slick and classy... Yes its a dark subject and rightly so to be called as a Neo-Noir...

The only little problem is the fading notes... Ending could have been much more rigid and solid, which could have bring a lot more impact and make it more authentic... Overall, its a very nice watch but Ek Villain was way better as far as screen play for the revenge cinema is concerned...

Roy... Movie Review by Shoby

Roy... Movie Review...

3 stars out of 5...

A v different film with a v solid script... Awesome dialogues and bang on performances... A winner indeed... Reminded of shabd...